Every now and then one of those e-mails that is important enough to forward and re-forward makes its way around a community.

Such is the case with an e-mail that’s been circulating regarding the “No on 8” campaign, the campaign working to defeat Proposition 8, which would eliminate same-sex couples rights to marry.

We may think we’re preaching to the choir, but it’s not enough to simply vote and hope other Californians will remember this country is based on the principal “all men are created equal.” This is one of those times we have to get up and fight for our rights. Here is an e-mail I’ve received four or five times now that was posted by Meaghan Yaple, a club promoter in San Diego. It’s not for a beer bust, raffle or auction for leather items we already have, but we must realize its significance and the effect an event like this could have for all of us:

“As many of you know, on Nov. 1 at Qualcomm Stadium, more than 40,000 people from all over the state are gathering to say a prayer that Proposition 8 passes. In response to this, more than 1,000 ‘No on 8’ supporters will be lining University Avenue for a candlelight rally. We will let our voice be heard that we do not want our rights taken away. With only a few days left before Election Day, we all need to stand united in this historic moment. Please join me on Nov. 1 at 9 p.m. on University Avenue in Hillcrest, and please let all of your friends and family know. As Californians we have an obligation to help lead this great country into the next generation by setting an example, by preserving the rights and freedoms of all Americans. You can pick up your candle at the GLBT center in Hillcrest, located at 3909 Centre St. Mayor Jerry Sanders and his daughter will be handing out the candles. ‘No on 8’ signs will also be provided. Remember to vote ‘no’ on Proposition 8 on Nov. 4!”

If people who plan to vote “yes” on Proposition 8 – gay republicans, black republicans or just republicans in general – don’t scare you enough, you may want to attend a workshop on “Terror Play.” “Terror Play: Taking One’s Self to a State of Mind Beyond Immediate Fears” will be presented by Christi on Thursday, Nov., 6 at 7 p.m. at the Joyce Beers Center behind Trader Joe’s in Hillcrest. This form of “scene play” is not limited to the intense forms of using both your psychological and physical capabilities in play. The inner psyche holds no limits to the all-inclusive scene capabilities that can be mastered and developed. Transitioning yourself into the state of mind (whether you’re a Top and/or bottom) to experience Terror Play can be a “tricky” negotiation. Communication in this realm is always of great importance. Come explore with Christi, as she takes us on an exploration of ourselves, and the inner-workings of our minds! She will explain some of the ins and outs and do’s and don’ts and negotiation skills necessary to find the psychological, physical and sexual pleasures that can be achieved using Terror Play.

Finally, the San Diego Eagle is trying something new with “Step Away From the Screen Mondays!” The Eagle will be serving $2.50 short single wells from 4-8 p.m. on Monday nights. Whether you have your own Web site, work on someone else’s, have a community page, or just wonder how to get started, step away from the screen and come find out more.

Many of the bars I’ve visited around the country have installed computers so people can get online and cruise. As dysfunctional and antisocial as this may sound I have to admit to using one in Florida to find an “Adam” to meet me down at the bar just so we could leave shortly after. Of course you have to buy a drink in order to use the computer for 15 minutes but it beats a late night trip to Kinkos.

Happy Birthday and congratulations to Adam and Tim! See ya’ll soon. For my contact information, visit www.gaylesbiantimes.com/links/1088.